Johnny Walker returns to action next month on one of the sport’s biggest stages at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Walker (17-3 MMA, 3-0 UFC) takes on Corey Anderson (12-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC), winner of Season 19 of “The Ultimate Fighter,” in a light heavyweight bout that should be a critical one for the division. Walker and Anderson each have three straight wins. But Walker’s have been truly impressive – each coming in the first round. And the past two have been in a combined 51 seconds against Justin Ledet and Misha Cirkunov.

Ahead of UFC 244, which takes place Nov. 2 with a main card on pay-per-view, catch up with Walker before arguably the biggest fight of his career and toughest test yet.

Talk about your career up to this point heading into your big fight at UFC 244.

My success is thanks to a lot of training. In Brazil, life is hard – without much assistance. Most fighters come from nothing. I have a lot of will power, as well as faith in God and in my dream. It’s necessary to want to achieve more, to dream big, and to put in the blood and sweat necessary. I’m very happy with the work I’ve been doing. It’s only been about five years since I started as a professional. I’m still learning a lot and evolving. I try to show a better game every time I fight. I’m very ready and motivated. I thank God, my friends, my coach, my family, and everyone who supports me in the pursuit of my dream. Hopefully, I can keep making my way up the rankings, and get my hands on the belt one day. I’d like to make that happen in a few months. And I’m looking to capture not just one belt, but to do so in two weight classes.